In this ever-changing world, research and innovation is essential to address the different global challenges the world faces nowadays. The work presented here demonstrates that improvements in the mechanical properties of the alloy are achieved due to the incorporation of nanometric ceramic particles in the aluminum matrix.

Thanks to their inexpensive and efficient processes, companies offering die cast products are in a good position to gain new market share in the coming years. However, the journey is not an easy one - there are five challenges for companies to overcome.

Sales, market shares, export growth and declines: Between 2017 and 2018, the market of CEMAFON die casting and permanent mold machine manufacturers has seen some developments. Read in this article what exactly these trends look like.

The winners of the International Aluminum Die Casting Award 2020 have been announced. In all, four castings were awarded prizes at EUROGUSS in Nuremberg, while two others received special commendations.

Quality assurance and traceability are vital for die casting foundries. Numerous test methods are available in order that companies can control the extent to which their products meet the requirements of the customers. As requirements for die cast parts continue to grow, also the requirements for testing technology are increasing.

B2B platforms bring suppliers and customers together and minimize search and transaction costs. Matthias Spanic, Managing Director of scrappel GmbH provides an overview of how SMEs in particular can benefit from these advantages.

After world trade in die casting and low-pressure die casting machinery declined in 2016 and 2017, exports increased by 6.5% in 2018. Due to increasing demands on die casting cells and the need for efficient information exchange, experts are working on a standardised open communication interface.

Obstacles to approval under the WLPT standard, which substantially reduced call-off figures were typical problems, the German die casting industry had to face in 2018. New demands on alloy developments and process technologies promise opportunities for foundries.

From 14^th to 16^th January 2020 the Exhibition Centre Nuremberg will once more become the meeting place for the die casting industry. In 2020 the international trade fair will offer the Die Casting Conference with a top quality lecture programme, special shows, the Additive Manufacturing pavilion and the EUROGUSS Talent Award.

The German aluminum industry is posting subdued expectations during the first half of 2019. The trade conflict between the USA and China gives cause for concern, but the industry is on a solid growth path in the medium to long term.